The Government has allocated $5 million over four years to a "Clean Technology Focus for Supply Chains Program" to encourage companies to embrace a low carbon economy.
The “Clean Technology Focus for Supply Chains Program” is part of the $1.5 billion “Clean Energy Future” package devised by the Gillard Labor Government to provide incentives and support for manufacturers to reduce energy consumption and cut carbon pollution.
The Supply Chains initiative, which is currently under review by the The Department of Innovation, Industry, Science and Research to decide on the specific design of the program, aims to enhance the clean technology aspects of existing business development and facilitation programs.
As part of the program, designated Supplier Advocates will collaborate with industry on activities to increase competitiveness, promote capabilities and link capable suppliers with clean technology projects. The program will also assist businesses in developing strategies for energy efficiency solutions, and will provide eligible businesses to the full range of Enterprise Connect services.
According to the Government's information, the program will see Enterprise Connect business advisers working directly with businesses, either individually or as groups, to support:
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product and service development;
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marketing and branding;
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supply chain engagement;
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export capability;
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being competitive in the global market; and
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joint research and innovation projects.
Services accessible via the Enterprise Connect network include:
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Business review – a comprehensive analysis of a firm carried out on site by a skilled and experienced Business Adviser;
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Researchers in business – the placement of researchers from universities or public research agencies into businesses to help develop and implement a new idea with commercial potential; and
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Workshops, industry intelligence, and networking: seminars, workshops and other activities that provide businesses with access to new innovations, technologies, expertise and best practice.
Addressing industry leaders who chair his advisory committees, Innovation Minister Senator Kim Carr said that Clean Energy Future would complement other important reforms such as the new R&D Tax Credit.
“The low carbon economy is a chance to rejuvenate Australian manufacturing and generate new Australian jobs. It will complement other important reforms like the new R&D Tax Credit,” Carr said.
“Programs like the Clean Technology Focus for Supply Chains and the Steel Transformation Plan will support jobs and keep Australian industry strong by providing them with incentives to invest in clean energy and energy efficiency. Manufacturers will respond to the carbon price by improving their production and resource efficiency and by innovating to develop low carbon products and technologies to maintain competitiveness in a changing global environment.”
Senator Carr added that manufacturing would receive transitional adjustment assistance totalling $800 million over seven years under the Clean Technology Investment Program.
Additionally, the $200 million five year Clean Technology Innovation Program will support research, development and commercialisation of clean technology products, processes and services to support innovation in industry.
“I am proud of Australia’s manufacturing sector. I believe it is innovative enough and resilient enough to succeed in a cleaner and greener future,” he said.
For more on how the carbon tax could impact the Textile, Clothing, Footwear and Leather industries, pick up a copy of Ragtrader's next print issue – out July 29.